
“Susie Fennema is the heart behind the DAISY Award program at Pine Rest, and we are honored to nominate her as our DAISY Champion.”
We are thrilled to recognize Nursing Executive Assistant Susie Fennema as our DAISY Champion, an honor that reflects her years of dedication to celebrating and supporting our nursing staff here at Pine Rest!
Susie is widely known as the heart behind Pine Rest’s DAISY Award program. Through her creativity, organization, and unwavering commitment, she ensures that every DAISY ceremony is a meaningful, memorable experience. From carefully planned details to thoughtful personal touches, Susie consistently goes above and beyond to make sure each DAISY nurse feels truly seen, valued and appreciated.
“She has a remarkable ability to create an atmosphere where both the awardees and attendees feel celebrated,” says Clinical Services Manager of Nursing, Karen Farmer. “She truly embodies the spirit of this award.”
Those who work with Susie say what makes her especially remarkable is her selflessness. She works tirelessly behind the scenes, intentionally stepping out of the spotlight so that others can shine. Every DAISY Award celebration she helps create is centered on the honoree, filled with compassion, warmth and heartfelt gratitude.
Her caring nature is woven into every aspect of the program’s success, and her behind-the-scenes efforts make the DAISY Award not only possible, but exceptional at Pine Rest,” says Vice-President of Hospital/Acute Services and Chief Nurse Officer Gretchen Johnson. “Simply put, we could not do this without her.”
Susie’s innovative approach to planning and her attention to even the smallest details have elevated the DAISY program and strengthened our culture of recognition across Pine Rest. Her work reinforces the extraordinary impact our nurses make every day and reminds them how deeply appreciated they are.
“Susie is someone that cares deeply about supporting others, recognizing their accomplishments, and always goes above and beyond to make even the littlest things special,” says Director of Nursing Erin Micale-Sexton. “We are so lucky and appreciative of all that she does in the planning and organizing of each Daisy award.”
.The DAISY award is presented in collaboration with the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI). To learn more and/or nominate an extraordinary Pine Rest nurse, visit our DAISY Nomination page.